Ground Preparation for Ferns

Soil pH

• Ferns prefer to grow in a soil pH between 5.5 to 6.5. When grown outside this range, ferns cannot absorb the soil's nutrients. To test the soil's pH, dig a 3- to 4-inch hole in the planting area. Collect 1/2 a cup of soil from the bottom of the hole. Mail off the soil sample to your local cooperative extension office. Wait three weeks for the results. Soil that is under 5.5 must be amended with dolomitic limestone. A soil pH above 6.5 requires elemental sulfur to be spread over the planting site.

Weeds

• Weeds compete with ferns for the soil's nutrients and sunlight, and pests like mealybugs, scales and spider mites live in weed growth. Because ferns are sensitive to pesticides, it is important to remove any weeds that present a hospitable environment to insects. Gardeners must remove weeds by using an herbicide that contains little soil residue. Herbicides that contain glyphosate are used to remove weed growth. Spray weeds on dry wind-free days. Avoid contacting any other plants with the spray.

Nutrients

• Gardeners should think about where ferns evolved when preparing their planting areas. Ferns evolved within the thick canopy of forests. Leaves and other organic matter littered the ground floor, decomposed and added nutrients to the soil. To replicate their preferred environment, remove 18 inches of the soil in the planting area. Mix up one part sharp sand, one part peat moss and one part potting soil. Spread the mixture on the first 12 inches of soil. Add 6 inches of compost on top of the soil.

Tolerations and Borders

• Ferns will not tolerate being trampled on. To prevent stepping on fragile fronds, gardeners must install walkways or pathways around plants. Furthermore, planting ferns on the border of the lawn is not a great idea. One wrong move with the lawn mower, can shred up a fern. Mowing accidents are prevented by installing a border or garden edging that separates the lawn from ferns. Mulching around ferns offers additional protection from weed growth and other plants infringing on the fern's growing area.